LAGOS, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA) – Apple appears to be developing a smart ring as a wearable device with touch and pressure-sensitive controls, capable of controlling other devices, according to a recently granted patent.
The patent also outlines haptic feedback capabilities for notifications. This patent, titled “ring input device with pressure-sensitive input,” was filed in September 2021 and granted on August 22, listing Michael Beyhs, Richard Huizar, Filip Ilievski, Jean Lu, and Thayne Miller as inventors.
Apple envisions these electronic finger rings as unobtrusive communication devices that can connect wirelessly to compatible devices due to their small, everyday-wearable nature.
The patent describes various ways the ring could be worn, including as a bracelet, earring, necklace, or even a toe ring.
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The patent document illustrates scenarios where the smart ring could receive notifications wirelessly from smartphones, providing haptic feedback to the wearer’s finger.
Users could respond using the ring, and the device could also control smartphones, headphones, computers, and tablets.
Diagrams in the patent depict components like a rotating outer band and an electronic jewel system for input detection.
Apple has explored various wearable technologies, including rings, in recent years. While the company frequently files patent applications for a range of concepts, not all ideas materialize into consumer products.
The patent does not guarantee the launch of a product with these features, leaving the possibility that these technologies could be utilized or refined in other future products.